Known as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), this genetic disorder affects the connective tissues of the body, including the skin, joints, blood vessels, and organs. As well as having overly flexible joints, stretchy, fragile skin, and abnormal scar formation, people with EDS may also have heart, lungs, digestive system, or nervous system problems based on the type of EDS they have.
As opposed to traditional health care, direct primary care (DPC) allows primary care physicians to provide services directly to their patients, without involving insurance companies. Among the services patients can access are consultations, exams, lab tests, and care coordination, which they pay a monthly or annual fee for. Typically, DPC practices have fewer patients and more time for each visit, allowing for more personalized and comprehensive care.
People with EDS can benefit from DPC in several ways, including:
Reduced out-of-pocket costs since you don't have to pay copays, deductibles, or coinsurance. You don't have to worry about prior authorizations or insurance company denials.
The availability of telehealth services, such as telephone calls, emails, and video chats with your physician, can help you stay in touch and receive timely advice and guidance.
Your DPC physician can communicate regularly with your specialists, such as rheumatologists, geneticists, dermatologists, cardiologists, and neurologists.
People with EDS can benefit from DPC in the following ways:
You can have a closer relationship with your primary care physician, who can get to know you better and understand your needs and preferences.
A DPC physician will address not only your physical issues, but also your mental and emotional well-being, as well as nutrition, exercise, stress management, and quitting smoking.
Choosing the DPC practice that best suits your needs and values gives you more input and control over your health care decisions.
You will enjoy greater convenience, flexibility, transparency, and respect from your DPC physician.
The following are some examples of how DPC can customize your EDS care to improve your quality of life and health outcomes:
We provide individualized treatment plans based on your medical history, current medications, allergies, and goals.
Providing access to new therapies and technologies not covered by insurance.
Assessing your connective tissue function and quality of life regularly through screening tests and surveys.
Providing medications or supplements to help manage symptoms or underlying conditions.
Recommending physical therapy or occupational therapy sessions to help you improve your joint function and stability.
Support groups and education programs can help you cope with the challenges of living with EDS.
As Albert Einstein once said: “The only source of knowledge is experience.”
DPC is a viable option for those with EDS who want more personalized, comprehensive, and affordable primary care.
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